Just Desserts: Forget about winter with some Key lime cookie bars

March 13, 2014

Key lime cookie bars are relatively easy to make but the Key lime juice is a must. / Mary Schroeder/DFP

By Detroit Free Press staff

Believe it or not, spring is right around the corner. Get an early taste of the season with these Key lime cookie bars. Perfect for showers, graduation parties and springtime gatherings, these bars pack a surprising citrus blast. They also are relatively easy to make — the only effort required is squeezing fresh Key lime juice — a must for this recipe.

In a large bowl, combine the flour and ½ cup sugar. Cut in the butter with a pastry blender until the mixture is crumbly. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden. Remove from the oven and set aside. Leave the oven on.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until thick and pale. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups sugar, lime juice, salt, lime zest, coconut and almonds, beating well after each addition.

Spread evenly over the baked layer in the pan. Bake 20 to 25 more minutes, or until lightly browned. Cool completely and then cut into bars.

Submitted by Cliff Prebay, Harrison Township, and adapted from www.bigmamasrecipes.com. Tested by Susan Selasky for the Free Press Test Kitchen. Analysis per bar.